One of the most decorated and celebrated women’s basketball players of all time breaks down her ultimate recipe to success, using her own deeply inspiring journey to teach readers how to live bravely, unapologetically, and with purpose.
A Cappella Books proudly welcomes Candace Parker to Frederick Douglass High School in honor of her debut book, "The Can-Do Mindset: How to Cultivate Resilience, Follow Your Heart, and Fight for Your Passions," on Thursday, June 5, at 7 PM. This event will take place in the school’s gymnasium. Parker will appear in conversation with Isiah Thomas, a legendary NBA Hall-of-Famer and accomplished businessman, known for his groundbreaking leadership both on and off the court.
Tickets are $33 and include a signed copy of "The Can-Do Mindset." A portion of the proceeds will benefit Douglass High School’s athletic department.
Please note: Although tickets are non-refundable, if you cannot attend, your ticket still entitles you to a signed copy of the book. A Cappella Books will hold your book for one month from the event date. You may pick it up in-store or call us to request shipping.
About the Book
Candace Parker is a living legend. Her storied career includes three WNBA titles, two Olympic gold medals, and countless MVP Awards. Her impact on the WNBA is immeasurable, but it’s her off-court life that truly inspires. A proud wife and mother of three, Parker has become a beacon for the LGBTQ+ community and a purpose-driven leader for women in sports.
In her first book, Parker breaks down her daily mantra—Can-Do—into an acronym that serves as a guide to personal and professional fulfillment:
•Community
•Authenticity
•Negativity
•Dash (the moments in between)
•Opportunity
With personal stories and actionable wisdom, The Can-Do Mindset is an invitation to live with courage and intention.
About the Author
Candace Parker has redefined what it means to be an athlete. After being selected No. 1 in the 2008 WNBA Draft and making history as both Rookie of the Year and MVP, she went on to win three WNBA championships and two Olympic gold medals. Today, she’s a mother, wife, broadcaster, activist, and entrepreneur—an inspiration on and off the court.
About the Conversation Partner
Isiah Thomas is a legendary NBA Hall-of-Famer, widely regarded as one of the greatest point guards in the history of the sport. Over a 13-year career with the Detroit Pistons, he led the team to back-to-back championships, earned NBA Finals MVP honors, and was named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History. Following his retirement, he held executive and coaching roles with the New York Knicks, Indiana Pacers, and New York Liberty, and has served as a studio analyst for NBA TV and TNT.
Off the court, Thomas has established himself as a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist. He is Chairman and CEO of Isiah International LLC, a minority-owned investment firm with holdings in cannabis, automotive innovation, and luxury beverages. Among his many business firsts, he co-founded the Toronto Raptors and was the first African American board member of the Chicago Stock Exchange. He is also the founder of The Mary’s Court Foundation, which supports education, safety, and wellness initiatives for youth, and has funded over 100 scholarships through his charitable work.
